Zoom WREN talk follow-up after the walk
2023-09-12 18:30 - 20:00 UTC
Following on from the club’s guided Wren walk on Saturday 26 August, club member and City of London guide Stephen Willis will give a Zoom talk on the great architect Sir Christopher Wren as one of the events to mark the 300th anniversary of his death. The talk will focus on the stunning interiors of those City of London churches that the group will have passed on the walk, as well as other masterpieces among Wren’s buildings in the City and beyond.

The ticket price is per screen so bring friends and family around to join in.

Lake Annecy
2023-09-24 - 2023-09-30
Bookings are through our agents Travel Editions, the tour is now full, but if you wish to join the waiting list please contact Travel Editions direct.
https://www.traveleditions.co.uk
Send your enquiry to:
Travel Editions
3 Young’s Buildings
London EC1V 9DB
Call on
020 7251 0045
Email us:
tours@traveleditions.co.uk
Opening Hours:
Monday – Friday: 9am to 5pm Speak to a person
Sat & Sun: Speak to an Answerphone

THE FOUNDERS' DAY DINNER - 146TH ANNIVERSARY
2023-10-31 19:00 - 23:00 | Farmers & Fletchers In the City, 3 Cloth St, London, EC1A 7LD, United Kingdom
The United Wards Club of the City of London was founded on 31 October 1877, and we shall commemorate this at our Founders’ Day Dinner, which this year will be held at Farmers & Fletchers, 3 Cloth St, London EC1A 7LD on Tuesday 31st October at 7 pm for 7:30.
We have a special guest attending, Andrew Marsden, who will speak about his year as Sheriff.

On this occasion we will be buying our own wines from the Wine Society so we hope we can get some interesting wines.

The President has chosen the following menu
Chalk farm cured trout, pickled cucumber, dill and lemon pancake, parsley oil, mustard cress

Roast chicken breast, thyme and garlic potato terrine, spiced carrot puree, spinach, chicken jus

Glazed, lemon tart, crème fraiche, berries

The following announcment appeard in the Daily Telegraph on the 1st November 2023 in the Court notices:
UNITED WARDS CLUB
Mr Michael Wren, President of the United Wards Club of the City of London, took the chair at the Founder’s Day Dinner held last night at Farmers & Fletchers Hall to celebrate the Club’s 146th anniversary.
Mr Andrew Marsden, former Sheriff of the City of London, proposed the toast and the minutes from the Club’s first meeting in 1877 were read out.
Mr Stephen Lane, President of the Royal Society of St George City Branch, Mr Chris Walton, Master of the Guild of Freemen, and Mr Alan Cook, Senior Vice-President of the City Livery Club, were among others present.

Lord Mayor's Show
2023-11-11 10:00 - 15:00
UNITED WARDS CLUB
There is room for up to 25 United Wards Club members to walk with our own float during the Show. If you would be interested in volunteering, please bear in mind the following:

You will need to be with our float somewhere along London Wall by 10.15am ready for a 10.30am departure.

The official programme will tell you the outward route is 1.2 miles and the return 1 mile. In reality it is nearer 1.75 miles each way, as we also have to get from London Wall to Mansion House which is where the 1.2 miles is measured from and then back again. The procession moves at a fairly brisk pace.

You will be required to walk both the outward and return legs of the route. Many people watch the return as well as the outbound leg, so it is important the float looks the same for both parts. We understand it may be possible to have different walkers for each half, so you may still be able to take part if the total distance is too much.

The weather at the beginning of November could be warm/cold/sunny/wet/windy/foggy or any combination thereof! Once you have committed to walking we will expect you to take part irrespective of the weather.

A picnic lunch will be provided at the halway point.

You will be free to go by 2.30/3pm.

Please register your interest using the RSVP ticket below

THE LORD MAYOR’S SHOW
The Lord Mayor’s Show is an ancient statement of the indomitable spirit of London and a modern celebration of her vigour and diversity.
The Show dates back to the early 13th century, when a desperate King John allowed the City of London to appoint its own Mayor. The King insisted that each newly-elected Mayor should come to Westminster and swear loyalty to the Crown, and the Mayor of London has been making that journey for over 800 years. Around him (and her) grew up the noisy, colourful, joyous procession that over the centuries became known as the Lord Mayor’s Show.
THE LORD MAYOR
The 695th Lord Mayor of London, subject to election, will beAlderman Michael Mainelli. Not only is this a great personal honour for him, it is also a huge honour for the Worhipful Company of World Traders as, for the first time in their short history, they will be the Mother Company of the Lord Mayor. The United Wards Club will of course be supporting the Lord Mayor with our own float.
GETTING HERE
Sorry: cars and buses are no help on Show day. Tubes, boats and bicycles are much better, the new Elizabeth Line station at Farringdon is ideally placed and there are many nice ways to walk into the City when it is free of traffic.
WHERE TO GO
Some suggestions for different ways to watch the Show depending on how much you like a crowd and what else you might like to do that day.
HISTORY OF THE LORD MAYOR’S SHOW
The Mayor of London is an ancient office originally created by King John in a doomed attempt to get the city on his side.
It was 1215, and John’s disastrous reign was falling apart. His armies were retreating in France, his treasury was empty and his Barons were on the edge of open revolt. Soon they would force him to sign the Magna Carta, which would be largely ignored until civil war finally broke out. John died of dysentery a year later while marching his dwindling armies from one besieged city to another.
London was right in the middle of the growing conflict. It was a cosmopolitan, international place even then: rich but vulnerable, easy to take but hard to govern. The King’s taxes were high and the City was frequently held hostage by one or other group of warring Barons. The whole situation was very bad for business.
The King’s Charter for London of May 9th 1215, now in the London Metropolitan Archive
For years London had been trying to become a ‘commune’: a sort of early city state that would be able to declare its borders, make treaties and defend itself. King Richard had been an ally and King John may have thought it a smart move to go along with this. In 1215 he issued a Royal Charter that established the commune and allowed the City to choose its own Mayor every year instead of having a sheriff appointed by the King.
Know ye that we have granted … to our barons of our city of London, that they may choose to themselves every year a mayor, who to us may be faithful, discreet and fit for government of the city, so as, when he shall be chosen, to be presented unto us, or our Justice if we shall not be present… and he shall swear to be faithful to us…
At the end there you can see a careful condition: every year the newly elected Mayor must leave the safety of the City, travel upriver to Westminster and swear loyalty to the King.
London in around 1300: a walled town separated by open country from distant Westminster, where the King had his base.
In fact the loyalty of 13th century London was quite flexible and its gratitude brief. The city became a base for the rebellious barons. When they tried to get out of trouble later that year by offering the English crown to Prince Louis of France, Londoners are said to have lined the streets to welcome the invading French army.*
Later that year the King was brought to heel and the Magna Carta was signed. It was never meant to be a constitutional milestone, but just another attempt to make peace. John never put his name to it, since he could not read or write, but among its 25 signatories we can see the second elected Mayor of London, William Hardel. He probably gave us this part:
13: The city of London shall enjoy all its ancient liberties and free customs, both by land and by water. We also will and grant that all other cities, boroughs, towns, and ports shall enjoy all their liberties and free customs.
The Mayor became known as the “Lord Mayor” about 200 years later but it has been an elected office ever since it was created, and for the next few centuries Lord Mayor of London was by far the grandest position to which a commoner could aspire. The Lord Mayor’s Journey was the celebrity spectacle of its day and over the centuries it grew so splendid and so popular that it became known everywhere as the Lord Mayor’s Show.
The Show features in the plays of Shakespeare, the diaries of Pepys and the adventures of James Bond and of course in the pantomime story of Dick Whittington, who really was Mayor of London in three separate years. In the 20th century the Lord Mayor’s Show was the first outside event ever to be broadcast live and it still attracts a TV audience of millions.
The modern Lord Mayor’s procession is a direct descendant of that first journey to Westminster. The route and date have changed over the years but the pageantry of Hogarth and Canaletto can still be seen in its lively mixture of London’s past, present and future.
The State Coach is over 250 years old, and the pikemen who guard it are almost as old as the Show. Today you will see the City’s businesses, Livery Companies, charities, Her Majesty’s Forces, the City Police and Londoners from all walks of life come together to enjoy a splendid celebration of the City’s ancient power and prosperity, just as they did in the middle ages.
* It’s worth mentioning that England was essentially a Norman colony at the time. The real Angevin capital was in Anjou and the war was between the northern and southern Kings of France. John did very badly, lost almost all of his French kingdom and ended up, briefly, something much more like the King of England. This and the concessions that he made on the way, turned out to be some of the most important building blocks of Britain (and London).

Guildhall Christmas Market Grand Opening
2023-11-27 17:30 - 21:00 | Guildhall, Gresham Street, London, EC2V 7HH
The event raises vital funds for the work of the British Red Cross. Our President, Mike Wren, and long-standing Red Cross Christmas Market organiser and Member of the Club Audrey Tibles will be attending the opening Gala Night. Tickets for the opening night can be found here. Tickets cost £60 and includes exclusive fizz & canapé reception. Join the social soirée of the season as we celebrate the Grand Opening of the City’s traditional Christmas Market. Officially opened by a member of the Royal Family and the Lord Mayor of London. Enjoy this unique opportunity to socialize over bubby and canapes with an exclusive look at over 40 artisan stalls.

The City’s original Christmas Market
After an enforced break due to the pandemic, London’s Guildhall will once again be transformed into the ultimate shopping experience. Shop a variety of stalls selling luxury handmade, unique and exclusive gifts. The event raises vital funds for the work of the British Red Cross.
When you’re ready to take a break from shopping why not join us for a delicious afternoon tea or festive lunch in the Crypt. Refreshments and treats will also be available.

Celebrating 60 years
Founded in 1961, the Guildhall Christmas Market is the largest fundraising event for the British Red Cross and one of London’s most successful Christmas Markets. The gothic splendour of the City’s most renowned medieval building, the Guildhall, provides a truly atmospheric and memorable venue for this special event.

CAROLS AND CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON
2023-12-12 11:00 - 15:30 | Guildhall, Gresham Street, London, EC2V 7HH
Once again our Carol Service will be held at St Margaret Lothbury at 11:00 am on Tuesday 12th December.

***

The earliest mention of St Margaret Lothbury is from 1185. The patronage of the church belonged to the abbess and convent of Barking, Essex until the Dissolution, when it passed to the Crown. It was rebuilt in 1440, mostly at the expense of Robert Large, who was Lord Mayor that year and is remembered as the Master of whom Caxton served his apprenticeship. It suffered as did so many of London’s churches in the Great Fire of London of 1666 and was rebuilt by Christopher Wren from 1686 to 1690.

***
Afterwards luncheon will be served in the lovely Old Library at Guildhall, Greshham Street, London EC2V 7HH. At this festive time of year, this is a splendid occasion for family and friends to enjoy, with excellent music and rejoicing and fine food and wine to follow!

The President has selected the following menu:
Christmas Spiced London Gin Cured Fillet of Smoked Scottish Salmon, Lime Crème, Fresh Samphire Salad and Black Olive Ciabatta
Roasted Woodland Farm Norfolk Black Leg Turkey Breast, Cranberry & Pear Sauce, Pan Juice Gravy, Chipolatas Wrapped in Smoked Bacon, Roast Potatoes, Brussels Sprouts with Toasted Almonds and Puree of Carrot Swede Parsnip
The Cook & The Butler World Famous Traditional Christmas Pudding
Fair Trade Rich Roast Coffee, Tregothnan Cornish Estate Grown Tea, Mince Pies & Brandy Butter, Christmas Chocolates

***

The President has agreed there will be NO charge for the Carol service itself and we have been able to keep the cost of luncheon with only a moderate increase against last year to £116.50 per person, we very much hope that members will see this as still good value for such a grand way to start the season of festivity.

***
We are delighted that one of our Associate Wards, Aldgate Ward Club, Tower Ward Club together with the Worshipful Company of Glaziers will be joining us on the day.

***

There are seperate tickets for the Carol Service and luncheon so please book your party for both no later than Tuesday 5 December to allow us to confirm catering requirements.

***

Pantomime: Peter and the Loose Boys
2024-01-19 18:30 - 23:59 | Brick Lane Music Hall, 443 North Woolwich Road, Newham, London, E16 2DA, United Kingdom
We have secured just 8 tickets for the United Wards Club to join Tower Ward for an unforgettable evening of entertainment.
Join us for an our annual pantomime for grown-ups. “Peter and the Loose Boys,” is a riotous and hilarious experience that you won’t want to miss. Featuring beloved performers from Brick Lane Music Hall, this event promises an old-fashioned sense of fun, making it the perfect antidote to those winter blues. Enjoy a delectable three-course dinner, toe-tapping dancing, and an evening filled with laughter and merriment. Secure your tickets now for a night that’s sure to become a cherished memory.
Timings: Bar opens at 6:30 PM, dinner served at 7:00 PM, show from 9:00 PM to 11:15 PM, followed by dancing till midnight.
Cost: £69.50 per person.

CIVIC LUNCHEON
2024-02-01 12:00 - 15:30 | Trinity House, Tower Hill, London, EC3N 4DH
This year we will be hosting the Lord Mayor at Trinity House which enjoys a superb location overlooking the Tower of London and the River Thames.
Bookings open on 28th October 2023.

Behind the building’s imposing neo-classical façade, designed by Samuel Wyatt in 1794, are some of London’s most elegant banqueting and conference rooms.
On entering The House and leaving behind the bustle of city life the history of this venerable institution, home to the General Lighthouse Authority, is almost palpable.
The House’s beautiful Reception Hall with its elegantly sweeping, twin-curved staircase houses remarkable maritime artefacts that bear testament to the prominent role played by Trinity House in the nation’s maritime history.
This history began in 1514 when HenryVIII granted the charitable guild of mariners a Royal Charter to regulate the water traffic on the River Thames, their powers later extended by Elizabeth 1 to include the sea-marks around the English coastline.

Since moving to this building 200 years ago Trinity House has welcomed Royalty, Prime Ministers and Lords of the Admiralty, and many senior maritime figures from around the world.

Today, reflecting the on-going patronage of the Crown, the present day Master of the Corporation is HRH The Princess Royal, filling a role held in former centuries by amongst others, the diarist Samuel Pepys, Prime Minister William Pitt, the Duke of Wellington, Prince Albert and the late Duke of Edinburgh.
Its location, the elegance of the building and the versatility of its rooms make Trinity House an extremely desirable venue for social and corporate events.

The President has decided on the the menu below:

Starter
Fillet of Grilled Sea Trout, Celeriac Puree, Hollandaise Sauce
Selection of Breads
Pinot Grigio 2022 Provincia di Pavia, Ancora, Lombardy
&&&
Main
Bowood Grass Fed Lamb Confit from Thirsk in Yorkshire North Ridding, The breed is Texel Cross a breed that was crossed in the late 19th century with Lincoln, Leicester and Wensleydales and developed into a larger sheep popular for its beautifully tender and succulent meat, with Redcurrant Sauce, Parmentier Potatoes and Roasted Spring Vegetables
Sangiovese delle Marche 2019 Castel Sole Marche
&&&
Desert
Classic Individual Sicilian Lemon Tart, Blood Orange Compote, Hackney E17 Sea Salted Caramel Ice Cream
&&&
Fair Trade Rich Roast Coffee, Tregothnan Cornish Estate Grown Tea, Chocolate Truffles
Barão de Vilar Ruby Port or Martell VS Cognac

The Old Operating Theatre visit
2024-02-27 10:30 - 12:00 | The old operating theatre, 9A St Thomas' Street, The Old Operating Theatre Museum, London, SE1 9RY, United Kingdom
The Old Operating Theatre Museum and Herb Garren is one of the oldest surviving operating suites (dating from 1822) and a museum of surgical history. The museum consists of the operating suite that was used in the days before anesthetics and antiseptic surgery and the herb garret to store and cure herbs used in healing. Besides this, Old Operating Theatre Museum displays artefacts that reveal the horrors of medicine and objects on medieval monastic health care, Florence Nightingale, nursing, medical and herbal medicine and the history of St Thomas’s, Guy’s Hospital and Evelina Children’s Hospital.
We will adjourn to have lunch afterwards should attendees wish to join us please indiate on the 2nd RSVP ticket so we can book places at The George, a Greene King pub, 75-77 Borough High Street, Southwark, Greater London, SE1 1N, built in 1676, is London’s only surviving galleried inn.

Bookings open on 1st January. Please book and pay for the tour and also the optional, pay as you go, lunch RSVP ticket if you wish to join the group for lunch afterwards.

Annual General Meeting
2024-03-22 18:00 - 19:00 | Guildhall, Gresham Street, London, EC2V 7HH
Notice is hereby given that the Annual General Meeting of the United Wards CLub will be held on Friday 22nd March 2024 at 6 pm.
COMMITTEE ROOMS 3 & 4
Access: via the WEST WING, GUILDHALL, GRESHAM STREET, LONDON EC2P 2 EJ
This is for paid up members only, please only select 1 guest and enter yoiur name. Members’ guests should make their way at 7pm via the Basinghall Entrance and not attend the AGM as space is limited.

We are required to give the names of attendees in advance so kindly click on the RSVP below clicking on “Going” and enter your name, or you can offer your apologies by clicking on “Not going”.

INSTALLATION DINNER
2024-03-22 19:00 - 23:00 | Guildhall, Gresham Street, London, EC2V 7HH
The installation dinner will be held, after the AGM, at Guildhall in the splendid Livery Hall to celebrate Dhruv Patel OBE’s election as our new President.
7:00 pm for 7:30pm on Friday 22 March 2024, following the earlier Annual General Meeting (for which notice will be sent to Members separately).
This is the incoming President’s first event of his year and we are sure that as many Members as possible will want to support Dhruv Patel OBE and welcome him to office.

A musical performance will be provided by renowned world music pianist and composer Rekesh Chauhan BEM.
Grace by the incoming President’s Honorary Chaplain: Madhava Turumella (scholar and Hindu priest).
Carpet guard will be provided by the Metropolitan Police Cadets North East branch.
Sparkling drinks reception, three course dinner with complementary wines and port followed by coffee.

Dress Code: Black Tie, cocktail or evening dresses for ladies; badges and medals may be worn
The President presumptive, has selected the following menu:

Starter: Mozzarella Basil Crisp Plum Cherry
Main: Whole Roasted Boned Quail Grape & Sage Stuffing Rich Red Wine & Sauce Cumin Purple Carrot Green Cabbage
Vegetarian main: Sultana & Chick Pea Cous Cous Black Olive Puree
Dessert: Poached Pear & Saffron Caramelised Plum Cinnamon Ice cream

Please note that photographs will be taken during the event and some may be added to our archives, online

Big Curry Lunch
2024-04-18 12:30 - 15:00 | Guildhall, Gresham Street, London, EC2V 7HH
UWC is keen to show its support by joining an exquisite culinary experience at the Big Curry Lunch Fundraiser, hosted at the historic Guildhall in the heart of the City of London.
What to Expect: Event Highlights:

Savor an indulgent curry lunch in the grandeur of Guildhall.
Hosted by the distinguished Lord Mayor, demonstrating the City’s unwavering support for members of His Majesty’s Armed Forces and veterans.
All proceeds from this event will directly benefit the three National Service Charities: The Army Benevolent Fund, Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity, and Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund.

A scrumptious curry lunch featuring a variety of authentic dishes.
An opportunity to connect with the community and show support for our military personnel, veterans, and their families. Engaging activities and entertainment throughout the event.
Your presence and generosity will make a significant impact on the lives of those who have served our country.
We look forward to sharing a delightful meal and making a positive difference together.
Additional Information: United Wards Club members attending should gather in the Members Bar on the 3rd floor of West Wing at Guildhall at 12:30 pm so that we can all go down together promptly for the 1:15pm sitting to secure seats together.
Booking instructions

Members to book their 1:15pm tickets directly with the organisers at https://events.armybenevolentfund.org/event/the-lord-mayors-big-curry-2024/ticket-options
Please then also RSVP below so that we can track who has booked.

Afternoon Tea and Tour of President's Grade II* listed family home in Ongar
2024-04-23 12:00 - 15:00 | Ongar CM5, Ongar, Essex, CM5, United Kingdom
Join us for an exclusive Afternoon Tea and Tour of the President’s Grade II* listed family home in the picturesque parish of High Ongar, Essex. This unique event offers United Wards Club members a rare glimpse into the rich history and heritage of Ongar’s most distinguished residential property.
Event Highlights:

Guided Tour: Explore the historical marvel of the house, originally built in the late 17th Century attributed to Nicholas Alexander and remodelled in the mid-18th Century. The President’s parents will lead you through the regency-style red brick façade, the private grounds, and the meticulously restored interiors, highlighting its architectural and historical significance.
Afternoon Tea: Enjoy a sparkling afternoon tea in the grandeur of the Queen Anne dining room which has a listed late-18th Century plaster decorated ceiling in Adam style.
Exclusive Insights: Learn directly about the house’s transformation from a nursing home back into a stunning single-family residence by its current owners. Discover the careful and sensitive restorations that have brought the house back to its former glory, including the refurbishment of the Kitchen/Breakfast Room and the addition of new internal structures in the context of its architectural evolution.

Additional Information:

Location: Full address details will be given a few days before the event. Members to make their own travel arrangements. Parking will be available for all attendees on-site.
Accessibility: There is a step to enter the building and a grand staircase to be navigated to view the first floor. Traversing the gardens will be mainly on grass and gravel.
Dietary: The President and his family are all vegetarian so catering will be the same.

Go Dharmic Food Distribution & Optional Dinner
2024-05-14 17:30 - 19:00
Join your fellow members of the United Wards Club for an impactful evening of volunteer work with Go Dharmic, followed by an optional dinner gathering at the prestigious National Liberal Club.
Special Guests:

Bav Shah, Club Member and recently appointed High Sheriff of Bedfordshire. His presence highlights the importance of our civic duties and community involvement.
Hemal Randerwala, Chairman and Founder of Go Dharmic, will also be in attendance to share insights into the organization’s mission and impact.

Schedule:

5:30 PM to 7:00 PM: Participate in the Go Dharmic Food Distribution event at Agar Street. Volunteers will aid in distributing food to those in need, supporting our mission to combat food insecurity.
7:30 PM onwards: After contributing to a noble cause, members can unwind and discuss the day’s events over dinner at the National Liberal Club.

Dinner Details:

Venue: National Liberal Club, an iconic setting known for its historical significance and breathtaking views of the Thames.
The cost is expected to be around £50 per person with the final bill being split between attendees.

Notes: This event is a fantastic opportunity to engage with community service and enjoy a social evening in a distinguished club setting. Dinner costs are at the member’s own expense. Ensure you bring adequate supplies for the food distribution and dress appropriately for the weather and the dinner.
We look forward to a meaningful and enjoyable evening with you as we support the admirable efforts of Go Dharmic in making a difference in the lives of many. Your participation not only reflects your commitment to community service but also strengthens our club’s mission of fostering fellowship and societal contributions.
For any further inquiries, please feel free to reach out to the event coordinators.
Together, let’s make a significant impact!
Additional Information:

Time: Food Distribution: 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM | Dinner: 7:30 PM onwards
Location: Food Distribution at Agar Street, London | Dinner at National Liberal Club (NLC), Whitehall Place

Booking instructions

Members are to book their dinner tickets directly.
Please then also RSVP below so that we can track who has booked.

Portsoken Ward Walk and Reception
2024-06-19 13:30 - 15:30 | St Botolph’s without Aldgate Church, Aldgate High Street, City of London, England, EC3N 1AB, United Kingdom
Joint event with Portsoken Ward Club
Event Details:

Tour Guide: Deputy Henry Jones, Common Councilman for Portsoken Ward and Master of Portsoken Ward Club
Meeting Point: Community Centre, Church of St Botolph’s without Aldgate, EC3N 1AB
Date: Wednesday 19th June
Meeting Time: 1:30 PM
Tour Start Time: 2:00 PM
Tour Duration: Approximately 35 minutes
Reception Venue: Roof Garden of Beaufort House, St Botolph Street, EC3A 7BB
Food and Drinks: Supplied by Barcelona Tapas Bar
Cost: £47.50 per person

Event Highlights:

Explore the historic and vibrant Portsoken Ward, located on the eastern edge of the City bordering Tower Hamlets.
Visit notable landmarks such as the famous Petticoat Lane market, social housing estates, and the historic St Botolph without Aldgate church.
Enjoy a printed guide to Portsoken Ward included in your tour package.
Connect with fellow United Wards Club members and members of Portsoken Ward Club immersing yourself in the rich history and promising future of the area.
Conclude the tour with a delightful reception at the Beaufort House roof terrace, offering stunning views and delicious food and drinks.

Booking Details:
To book your spot for this engaging and informative event, please click the link below to proceed with your payment of £47.50 per person.
Important Information:

Please ensure to arrive at the meeting point by 1:30 PM to allow for a prompt start of the tour at 2:00 PM.
The cost includes the walking tour, a printed guide, and the reception with food and drinks.
If you have any special dietary requirements or need further information, please contact us at assistantsecretary@unitedwardsclub.org.uk

We look forward to seeing you there!

Henley Royal Regatta
2024-07-07 11:30 - 17:00 | Fawley Meadows, Henley-on-Thames, RG9, United Kingdom
Bookings now closed
Join the United Wards Club for an unforgettable day out at the Henley Royal Regatta, enjoying the prestigious Fawley Meadows hospitality enclosure. This exclusive event promises a blend of thrilling rowing action and a quintessentially British social experience.
Why Attend?

Elite Rowing: Witness some of the world’s finest rowers compete in one of the most historic and prestigious regattas.
Exclusive Access: Enjoy comforts including the exclusive terrace lounge.
Two-course lunch: featuring local produce, complemented with one glass of wine, beer or soft drink
Family Day: A perfect day out for the family with entertainment and activities that everyone can enjoy.
Club Gathering: A great opportunity to meet and socialize with fellow United Wards Club members in a relaxed and enjoyable setting.

Booking Instructions:

Secure Your Tickets: Members are required to book their tickets directly with the organisers at: https://tickets-henleyregatta.priava.com/event/view/1212-henley-royal-regatta-sunday-fawley-meadows-family-day
RSVP: After securing your tickets, kindly return to this page to RSVP. It’s essential that you do so, as it allows us to keep track of United Wards Club members attending the event. Your RSVP will ensure we can all be seated together for lunch and will facilitate any club-specific arrangements and keep you informed of any updates or group meet-ups on the day.

Additional Information:

Dress Code: Please refer to the Henley Royal Regatta’s official guidelines for the dress code.
Travel and Parking: Tickets include car parking. Members to make their own way to the Fawley Meadows hospitality enclosure.

We look forward to seeing you there for a day of sport, fun, and fellowship. Don’t miss out on this highlight of the summer social calendar. Book your tickets and RSVP today!

Holiday: Architecture & History of Holland
2024-08-04 - 2024-08-08
Join us on a captivating journey through the picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Holland, delving into its renowned architecture and the legacy of the Dutch Masters. From the iconic canals to the masterpieces of Vermeer and more, this 5-day adventure promises an immersive experience you won’t soon forget.
Event Details:
Dates: August 4th, 2024
Duration: 5 days
Starting from: £1,529
Departure: London St Pancras station
Accommodation: 4* Arsenaal Hotel in Delft
What’s Included:

Accommodation: Enjoy a comfortable stay at the centrally located 4* Arsenaal Hotel in Delft.
Excursions: Explore Delft, Louwman Museum, Madurodam, The Hague, Rotterdam, and more with guided tours.
Cultural Visits: Experience the International Court of Justice, Mauritshuis, and Koninklijke Porcleyne Fles.
Meals: Welcome and farewell dinners included at the hotel.

Highlights:

Artistic Wonders: Marvel at the works of Vermeer and other Dutch Masters in their hometown of Delft.
Classic Cars: Explore the fascinating Louwman Museum’s collection of classic cars.
Miniature City: Discover Madurodam, a stunning replica of Dutch monuments in a 1:25 scale.
Architectural Marvels: Dive into Rotterdam’s modern architecture on a guided tour and harbor cruise.

Booking Information:
For more details and to download the booking form https://www.tailored-travel.co.uk/unitedwardsclub_holland_2024.
Please contact the Assistant Secretary assistantsecretary@unitedwardsclub.org.uk for details of where to send the booking form with cheque.

Neasden Temple visit
2024-08-21 10:15 - 14:30 | Neasden Temple visit, BAPS Shri, Swaminarayan Madir, Pramukh Swami Road, Neasden, London, NW10 8HW, United Kingdom
A group visit to BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir is an ideal way to learn about Hinduism and enjoy exquisite Indian art and architecture intricate and marble and wooden carvings. Enjoy hours of beauty, peace and discovery at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir – a masterpiece of exquisite Indian design and workmanship in the heart of London. Europe’s 1st Traditional Hindu Temple.
Join the President for a visit to the Neasden Temple including the Understanding Hinduism exhibition.
Meet at 10:15am in temple reception area (all groups are required to arrive at the Mandir at least 10 minutes prior to their allotted time-slot)
Tour commences: 10:30am
Midday arti (ritual service): 11:45am Please note specific to the Swaminarayan sect of Hinduism there are separate seating arrangements for males and females inside the maha-mandap sanctuary during the arti ceremony. All visitors are requested to adhere to these arrangements during this time.
Lunch will follow at the on site Shayona restaurant which is booked at 1pm. Please note the restaurant is vegetarian and does not serve alcohol. https://shayonarestaurants.com/
Getting to the temple: BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Pramukh Swami Road, Neasden, London NW10 8HW. There is plenty of parking on site and Neasden, Stonebridge Park and Harlesden tubes are all within 15-20mins walk. https://londonmandir.baps.org/visit-us/getting-here/
Dress Code: Please note that a strict dress code operates within the complex. Specifically, tops must cover the shoulders, chest, navel, and upper arms. Leg-wear must be at least below knee-length.
Shoes: It is customary to remove footwear upon entering any part of the Haveli complex. Shoe racks are provided within the complex.

City Giving Day - there are four events on offer
2024-09-24 13:00 - 20:00 | Guildhall, Gresham Street, London, EC2V 7HH
City Giving Day 24th September 2024
There are four events on offer.
Tour de City 2024
Inter-company static Wattbike challenge
Be part of our high-energy Tour de City Wattbike challenge! The event will be held as part of City Giving Day on Tuesday 24 September at The Leadenhall Building in aid of The Lord Mayor’s Appeal.
The challenge is open for teams of maximum 5 people to take part and compete against other teams in a thrilling 40-minute race which is divided into five 8-minute slots for team members to pedal as fast as they possibly can with the support of their team members. There will be three races taking place on the day and you can choose the most suitable one for you.
– Session 1: 11am – 12 noon
– Session 2: 12 noon – 1pm
– Session 3: 1pm – 2pm
With a live leaderboard that enables you to see how you are doing against your closest rivals you and your team will have an opportunity to compete in two different categories:
– furthest distance cycled by team
– furthest distance cycled by individual
The registration fee is £50 per team of up to five people and we ask each team to raise a minimum sponsorship is £500 per team. A complimentary Tour de City race t-shirt is included for each participant in the registration fee.
Treasure Hunt 2024
Looking for an off-the-shelf team activity that will excite everyone involved?
The City Giving Day Treasure Hunt is the perfect way to support The Lord Mayor’s Appeal, build morale and have fun at the same time. All you need to do is arrive at Mansion House for 4pm, where you and your team will be given a clue. Crack it together to find the next prize and finally the treasure. The hunt should take you no longer than 45 mins
The first team back is the winner. No special gear or clothing is necessary – you’ll all receive a City Giving Day Treasure Hunt t-shirt, you won’t have to walk any further than half a mile and you are bound to learn something new about the City along the way.
If you haven’t got a full team together then it could be the perfect opportunity to meet someone new. Just enter yourself and we will create a team so that you can take part with some new faces.
Registration for the Treasure Hunt is £10 per person or £50 for a team of up to 6 people.
City Walk 2024
What could be better than a nice gentle stroll around the City during your lunchtime?
Lasting about an hour, one of the City of London Guides will take you through some of the byways of the City telling tales and pointing out myriad points of interest – you’ll be amazed by what you learn. So, whether you want to learn something new about the City or just get outside for a breath of fresh air at lunchtime – this will be the activity for you.
– Session 1: Midday – 1:00pm
– Session 2: 12:30pm – 1:30pm
– Session 3: 1:00pm – 2:00pm
– Session 4: 1:30pm – 2:30pm
Registration for the City Walk is £10 per person.
City Giving Day Quiz Night 2024
Exhausted by your City Giving Day activities or better at using your brain than cycling, walking or treasure hunting, come along to the final City Giving Day event: the Quiz Night.
With questions provided by Nick Boardman from QuizNick.com, test your general knowledge alongside your colleagues, compete with the greatest minds in the City, and be in with a chance of being crowned City Giving Day 2024 Quiz Night winners!

Choice of venues: details tbc
Time: 6pm-8pm
Max team size: 6 people (no minimum)
£50 per team (all proceeds to The Lord Mayor’s Appeal)

Please contact the Clerk, Stephen Henderson, by email if interested at clerk@unitedwardsclub.org.uk

THE FOUNDERS' DAY DINNER - 147TH ANNIVERSARY
2024-10-31 19:00 - 23:00 | St James’s, London SW1Y 5ER, London, SW1Y 5ER, United Kingdom
The United Wards Club of the City of London was founded on 31 October 1877, and we shall commemorate this at our Founders’ Day Dinner, which this year will be held at our President’s club, [redacted], St James’s, London SW1Y 5ER on Thursday 31st October.
PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS EVENT IS NOW FULL
Dress code: black tie with decorations
Guest of honour and keynote speaker: Alderman and Sheriff (elect) Greg Jones KC
Other official guests:

Chairman of the General Committee of [redacted] and his Consort;
Master of the the Guild of Freemen of the City of London and her Consort;
President of the City Livery Club and his Consort;
Chairman of the Royal Society of Saint George (City of London Branch) and his Consort.

Grace by the President’s Chaplain: Pandit Madhava Turumella
Menu
Starter

Bresaola with sun blushed tomato, marinated artichokes and sweet roasted peppers, shaved pecorino and wild rocket leaves
Vegetarian: Lightly spiced chickpeas and moutabel, with grilled aubergine, courgette and artichokes, pomegranate seeds

Main

Confit Gressingham duck leg, seasonal vegetable parcel, duck fat roasted potatoes, redcurrant and tawny port
Vegetarian: Mushroom and chestnut en croute, olive oil mash, roasted root vegetables, vegan onion gravy

Dessert

Brioche orange marmalade bread and butter pudding, custard

Please note that a photographer will be present and we will post the photos on the website to preserve our history. If you do not wish to have your photograph included, please tell the photographer on arrival.
Please also note that mobile phones should not be used in any part of the Clubhouse except in the kiosk in the front hall.

History and Mystery at The Magic Circle
2024-11-04 11:00 - 13:15 | Private: The Magic Cicle, 12 Stephenson Way, Euston, London, NW1 2HD, United Kingdom
Come visit The Magic Circle for a delightful programme that includes tea and coffee on arrival, a close-up magic show, a tour of our museum and a parlour magic show to finish of your stay!
Doors open at 11am with complimentary teas and coffees served at the bar and the performance begins at 11.30am
The event includes tours of the HQ including highlights from the museum collection, ‘close-up’ magic performance and a short show in the theatre.
The event finishes at approx 1.15pm.
The Magic Circle is less than a two minute walk from Euston Square Station (Circle, Hammersmith and City and Metropolitan Lines), a five minute walk from Warren Street (Northern and Victoria Lines) and a six to ten minute walk from Euston Station (Northern and Victoria Lines and main line trains).

Lord Mayor's Show
2024-11-09 10:00 - 15:00
The United Wards Club has been invited to take part in this year’s Lord Mayor’s Show, along with Rotary in London, which is sponsoring the entry. We shall be highlighting Rotary in Great Britain and Ireland’s “Purple4Polio” Campaign and will be joined a 100-year-old steam traction engine.

Spaces are limited so if you wish to take part in the parade, please email Mike Wren, michael.wren2@gmail.com a draw will then take place to allocate your position. Please note walking; (at a fast pace 76 steps per minute) dancing and looking happy are the main requirements’. Please note that if you wish to join us it must be for the whole show.
If you do not wish to take part, you can watch the parade at the roadside.

*******************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************

THE LORD MAYOR’S SHOW
The Lord Mayor’s Show is an ancient statement of the indomitable spirit of London and a modern celebration of her vigour and diversity.
The Show dates back to the early 13th century, when a desperate King John allowed the City of London to appoint its own Mayor. The King insisted that each newly-elected Mayor should come to Westminster and swear loyalty to the Crown, and the Mayor of London has been making that journey for over 800 years. Around him (and her) grew up the noisy, colourful, joyous procession that over the centuries became known as the Lord Mayor’s Show.
THE LORD MAYOR
The 696th Lord Mayor of London, is Alderman Alastair King DL.

GETTING HERE
Sorry: cars and buses are no help on Show day. Tubes, boats and bicycles are much better, the new Elizabeth Line station at Farringdon is ideally placed and there are many nice ways to walk into the City when it is free of traffic.
WHERE TO GO
Some suggestions for different ways to watch the Show depending on how much you like a crowd and what else you might like to do that day.
HISTORY OF THE LORD MAYOR’S SHOW
The Mayor of London is an ancient office originally created by King John in a doomed attempt to get the city on his side.
It was 1215, and John’s disastrous reign was falling apart. His armies were retreating in France, his treasury was empty and his Barons were on the edge of open revolt. Soon they would force him to sign the Magna Carta, which would be largely ignored until civil war finally broke out. John died of dysentery a year later while marching his dwindling armies from one besieged city to another.
London was right in the middle of the growing conflict. It was a cosmopolitan, international place even then: rich but vulnerable, easy to take but hard to govern. The King’s taxes were high and the City was frequently held hostage by one or other group of warring Barons. The whole situation was very bad for business.
The King’s Charter for London of May 9th 1215, now in the London Metropolitan Archive
For years London had been trying to become a ‘commune’: a sort of early city state that would be able to declare its borders, make treaties and defend itself. King Richard had been an ally and King John may have thought it a smart move to go along with this. In 1215 he issued a Royal Charter that established the commune and allowed the City to choose its own Mayor every year instead of having a sheriff appointed by the King.
Know ye that we have granted … to our barons of our city of London, that they may choose to themselves every year a mayor, who to us may be faithful, discreet and fit for government of the city, so as, when he shall be chosen, to be presented unto us, or our Justice if we shall not be present… and he shall swear to be faithful to us…
At the end there you can see a careful condition: every year the newly elected Mayor must leave the safety of the City, travel upriver to Westminster and swear loyalty to the King.
London in around 1300: a walled town separated by open country from distant Westminster, where the King had his base.
In fact the loyalty of 13th century London was quite flexible and its gratitude brief. The city became a base for the rebellious barons. When they tried to get out of trouble later that year by offering the English crown to Prince Louis of France, Londoners are said to have lined the streets to welcome the invading French army.*
Later that year the King was brought to heel and the Magna Carta was signed. It was never meant to be a constitutional milestone, but just another attempt to make peace. John never put his name to it, since he could not read or write, but among its 25 signatories we can see the second elected Mayor of London, William Hardel. He probably gave us this part:
13: The city of London shall enjoy all its ancient liberties and free customs, both by land and by water. We also will and grant that all other cities, boroughs, towns, and ports shall enjoy all their liberties and free customs.
The Mayor became known as the “Lord Mayor” about 200 years later but it has been an elected office ever since it was created, and for the next few centuries Lord Mayor of London was by far the grandest position to which a commoner could aspire. The Lord Mayor’s Journey was the celebrity spectacle of its day and over the centuries it grew so splendid and so popular that it became known everywhere as the Lord Mayor’s Show.
The Show features in the plays of Shakespeare, the diaries of Pepys and the adventures of James Bond and of course in the pantomime story of Dick Whittington, who really was Mayor of London in three separate years. In the 20th century the Lord Mayor’s Show was the first outside event ever to be broadcast live and it still attracts a TV audience of millions.
The modern Lord Mayor’s procession is a direct descendant of that first journey to Westminster. The route and date have changed over the years but the pageantry of Hogarth and Canaletto can still be seen in its lively mixture of London’s past, present and future.
The State Coach is over 250 years old, and the pikemen who guard it are almost as old as the Show. Today you will see the City’s businesses, Livery Companies, charities, Her Majesty’s Forces, the City Police and Londoners from all walks of life come together to enjoy a splendid celebration of the City’s ancient power and prosperity, just as they did in the middle ages.
* It’s worth mentioning that England was essentially a Norman colony at the time. The real Angevin capital was in Anjou and the war was between the northern and southern Kings of France. John did very badly, lost almost all of his French kingdom and ended up, briefly, something much more like the King of England. This and the concessions that he made on the way, turned out to be some of the most important building blocks of Britain (and London).

CAROLS AND CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON
2024-12-03 11:00 - 15:30 | Bakers’ Hall, Harp Lane, London, EC3R 6DP
This year our Carol Service will be held at Saint Olave Hart Street
8 Hart Street, London, EC3R 7NB, England at 11:00 am on Tuesday 3rd December.
50 choristers from City Junior School (our President’s daughter’s school) will be joining for the Carols.
Afterwards luncheon will be served in Bakers’ Hall, Harp Lane, London EC3R 6DP, dress code is Morning coats with black waistcoats for gentlemen [dark lounge suits with tie is acceptable] and day wear and hats for ladies.

St Olave Hart Street is one of the few mediaeval churches to survive the Great Fire of London. It is best known as the burial place of Samuel Pepys and his wife Elizabeth; the famous diaries of Samuel Pepys provide the most vivid first-hand account of the fire of 1666 and subsequent life.
St Olave’s has strong links to several historic London livery companies and other historic associations, most notably The Clothworkers’ Company, The Trinity House, The Environmental Cleaners and The Pepys’ Club. The Victorian author Charles Dickens lived close by and called St Olave’s ‘St Ghastly Grim‘, referring to the gargoyles on the churchyard gate.
St Olave’s has been a place of Christian worship and sanctuary for almost 1000 years.

The church is named after Saint Olave. At the 1014 Battle of London Bridge between the Danish army and the English King Ethelred, known to history as ‘The Unready’; Olav supported the Christian king of England in an attempt to regain his throne from the pagan Danes. In Rouen, Olav encountered the faith of Jesus Christ and was baptised in Rouen, France.

The first church in Hart Street may have been erected around AD 1050, a simple timber structure and in the 13th century, it was rebuilt in stone, and then again in 1450 under the patronage of Richard Cely, a wealthy wool merchant who died in 1482.

Upon returning to Norway, Olaf is known for bringing Christianity there; he was canonised after his death in 1030 and became the patron saint of Norway became known as its “Perpetual King” Our church on Hart Street could well have been built on the site of the battle.

At this festive time of year, this is a splendid occasion for family and friends to enjoy rejoicing and fine food and wine to follow!

Dietary requirements can be catered for (please advise during the booking process). The following Christmas menu has been selected:
Christmas spiced London gin cured fillet of smoked Scottish salmon, lime crème fresh, samphire salad, black olive ciabatta
&&&
Roasted Woodland Farm Norfolk Black Leg Turkey Breast
Cranberry & Pear Sauce Pan Juice Gravy, Chipolatas Wrapped in Smoked Bacon, Roast Potatoes, Brussels Sprouts with Toasted Almonds, Puree of Carrot Swede Parsnip
&&&
The Cook & The Butler world famous traditional Christmas pudding, with Christmas pudding ice cream caramelised oranges and rum sauce
&&&
Fairtrade rich roast coffee
Tregothnan Cornish estate grown tea
Mince pies and brandy butter
The vegetarian option will be:
STARTER
Heritage & Sundried Tomato Salad, Roasted Jerusalem Artichoke, Red Pesto Drizzle
MAIN
Sweet & Sour Mushroom Pie
Due to capacity restrictions attendance at the church service only will not be possible and tickets must be purchased to attend the service and the lunch.

Afternoon Tea and Tour of President's Grade II* listed family home in Ongar
2025-01-18 12:00 - 15:00 | Ongar CM5, Ongar, Essex, CM5, United Kingdom
Join us for an exclusive Afternoon Tea and Tour of the President’s Grade II* listed family home in the picturesque parish of High Ongar, Essex. This unique event offers United Wards Club members a rare glimpse into the rich history and heritage of Ongar’s most distinguished residential property.
Event Highlights:

Guided Tour: Explore the historical marvel of the house, originally built in the late 17th Century attributed to Nicholas Alexander and remodelled in the mid-18th Century. The President’s parents will lead you through the regency-style red brick façade, the private grounds, and the meticulously restored interiors, highlighting its architectural and historical significance.
Afternoon Tea: Enjoy a sparkling afternoon tea in the grandeur of the Queen Anne dining room which has a listed late-18th Century plaster decorated ceiling in Adam style.
Exclusive Insights: Learn directly about the house’s transformation from a nursing home back into a stunning single-family residence by its current owners. Discover the careful and sensitive restorations that have brought the house back to its former glory, including the refurbishment of the Kitchen/Breakfast Room and the addition of new internal structures in the context of its architectural evolution.

Additional Information:

Location: Full address details will be given a few days before the event. Members to make their own travel arrangements. Parking will be available for all attendees on-site.
Accessibility: There is a step to enter the building and a grand staircase to be navigated to view the first floor. Traversing the gardens will be mainly on grass and gravel.
Dietary: The President and his family are all vegetarian so catering will be the same.

PLEASE NOTE: Due to high demand, this event is a rerun of an earlier event in April 2024. It is kindly requested that those who attended the earlier event avoid booking so as to allow other members to enjoy this beautiful home.

Members & friends' reception
2025-02-13 17:30 - 19:00 | Guildhall, Members dining room, 71 Basinghall Street, City of London, London, EC2V 7HH, United Kingdom
The Club will be holding a new members event in Aon’s Client Suite in the Cheesegrater building, 122 Leadenhall Street EC3. The aim is to have a fun evening and encourage member’s friends and contacts to attend and join on the night with the cost of the evening offset as a discount against the first years subscription.
Date & Time: Thursday 13th February 2024, 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Aon’s Client Suite, Cheesegrater Building 122 Leadenhall Street, EC3
Event Description: The United Wards Club is excited to announce a special evening aimed at welcoming new members to our vibrant community. Set in the iconic Cheesegrater building, this event offers a fantastic opportunity for members to bring friends and contacts to experience the spirit of the Club and potentially join us on the night.
Event Highlights:

Fun and Networking: Engage with fellow members and guests in a relaxed and informal setting.
Address from Past Sheriff and UWC Member, Andrew Marsden MStJ.
Exclusive Membership Offer: The event fee of £15 will be offset against the first year’s subscription for any new members who join during the evening.

Catering: Complementary drinks red wine, white wine, beer, and soft drinks and a selection of nibbles.
The event will wrap up at 7:00 PM, leaving attendees free to make their own dinner arrangements afterward.
Membership Drive: Members are strongly encouraged to book for a guest or two who might be interested in joining along with themselves.
Pricing: £15 per person. This amount will be deducted from the first year’s membership fee for new joiners.
Join us for an enjoyable evening and help grow the United Wards Club community!

2025 Annual General Meeting
2025-03-17 17:45 - 18:30
Notice is hereby given that the Annual General Meeting of the United Wards Club will be held on Monday 17th March 2025 at 5:45 pm.
Please download the agenda and other papers as below:
Agenda AGM 2025
Minutes of the AGM 22 March.2024 final
The Year end accounts

COMMITTEE ROOMS 3 Unfortunatley due to postal votes for the Common Council elections we are in a single room so our apologies for possible the lack of space.
Access: via the WEST WING, GUILDHALL, GRESHAM STREET, LONDON EC2P 2 EJ
This is for paid up members only, please only select 1 guest and enter your name. Members’ guests should make their way at 7pm via the Basinghall Entrance and not attend the AGM as space is limited.

We are required to give the names of attendees in advance so kindly click on the RSVP below clicking on “Going” and enter your name, or you can offer your apologies by clicking on “Not going”.
Please note that photographs will be taken during the event and some may be added to our archives, online

2025 INSTALLATION DINNER
2025-03-17 18:45 - 23:00 | Guildhall, Gresham Street, London, EC2V 7HH
The installation dinner will be held, after the AGM, at Guildhall in the splendid Livery Hall to celebrate Chris Edge’s election as our new President. The guest speaker will be the RT Hon Lord (Tariq) Ahmad KMC of Wimbledon. Tariq previously served as Minister of State for the Middle East, North Africa, South Asia, Commonwealth and United Nations at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office..
6:45 pm for 7:30 pm on Monday 17th March 2025 following the earlier Annual General Meeting (for which notice has been sent to Members separately).
This is the incoming President’s first event of his year and we are sure that as many Members as possible will want to support Chris Edge and welcome him to office.

*** BOOKINGS NOW OPEN ***

Menu
Billingsgate Porter Pan Fried Fish Cake, Light Curry Sauce with Samphire Sauce
&&&
Whole Roasted Boned Quail Stuffed with Creedy Carver Free Range Chicken Parfait
Rich Maderia Sauce, served with Lyonnaise Potatoes, Cumin Purple Carrot & Green Cabbage
&&&
Peruvian Coffee Crème Brulee, White Chocolate Ice Cream, Crème Anglaise
&&&

Please make sure you put any dietary requirements on each individual’s booking entry.
A seperate pour memoire will be sent by email to each attendees email address a few days prior to the event.
Photographs will be taken during the event and some may be added to our archives, online, please let the photographer know if you object to having your photo taken.

Private Tour of Westminster Abbey and optional supper
2025-04-04 17:00 - 2025-05-05 21:30 | Westminster Abbey, 20 Deans Yard, London, SW1P 3PA, United Kingdom
We have the opportunty to visit this “Royal Peculiar”, the church used for coronations since 1066.
The evening starts with us attending the Evensong which starts at 5pm, then remian around after the service for Chris & Corinna Edge to greet you and meet the guide.
Don’t worry if you are not a Christian, you are still welcome to attend, just make sure you show due respect by, for example not wearing a hat if you are a gentleman, and stand or sit when everyone else does. It will give you an insight into the regular Abbey services.

After Evensong we will have a private tour of Westminster Abbey, led by The Right Reverend Anthony Ball, Canon of Westminster, thanks to the President’s wife who used to work at the Abbey.
After the tour we will go to a local modestly priced Italian restaurant for supper, which is on a pay as you eat arrangement.

*** Due to limited spaces the tour is limited limited to members and 1 of their guests only ***

However you can attend the Evensong and join us for supper afterwards at Colosseo, 79 Victoria Street, London SW1H 0HW, which is booked for circa 19:30
Getting there:

By tube: Jubilee, Circle, Elizabeth, Bakerloo, and District lines
Nearest stations: St. James’s Park and Westminster (both a five-minute walk away)

By train: Chiltern Railways and South Western Railway
Nearest stations: Waterloo (16-minute walk away) and Victoria (18-minute walk away)

By bus: Routes 11, 24, 88, 148, 211, 381
Nearest stops: Westminster Abbey or Parliament Square (both one-minute walk away)

Tour of Freemasons' Hall
2025-05-09 18:00 | Côte Brasserie, Covent Garden, 17 Tavistock Street, London, WC2E 7DA
*** Bookings open ***
Tour of Freemasons’ Hall, 60 Great Queen Street, London WC2B 5AZ, including the museum starting at 6pm so need to arrive shortly beforehand.
Freemasons’ Hall stands on a site that has been used to hold meetings for Freemasons since 1775. Completed in 1933 as a memorial to the thousands of Freemasons who died in the First World War, Freemasons’ Hall is recognised as one of the finest Art Deco buildings in England.
The Curator has agreed to let us see the two splendid silver gilt loving cups which were originally the property of the now defunct United Wards’ Lodge which are now in the Masonic museum. When the lodge closed in 2001 the ownership of the cups was transferred to the Club and it would be good to see them. The Curator will do short ‘show and tell’ with the cups and a few other City related items including things made from buildings lost or damaged in the Blitz.
After the tour we will go for supper for around 8pm at the Côte Brasserie restaurant at 17 Tavistock Street, Covent Garden, London WC2E 7DA.
We have asked for a private area and their fixed price menu which with wine and service would cost around £40.00 per person.
if you wish to join the supper please select the second ticket and prepay, we will email closer to the time asking for your menu preferences, but the menu will be added shortly.
Some background before you visit:
Freemasonry is a blueprint for living to your full potential.
Currently, it has over 6 million members worldwide who share the belief in the fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of mankind.
When it comes to secret societies, Freemasonry emerges in mind.
However, according to Margaret Jacob, the UCLA history professor, this common belief isn’t correct. It is indeed not a religion either.
As part of the President’s theme on religious tollerance this visit will hopfully highlight the bringing together of people from different religions, Christian, Jews, Muslim, Hindu, Sikhs for example in the Indian sub continent during the British Raj period.
Freemasonry is all about uniting men of good character, even if they are from different ethnic or social backgrounds.
Though no one exactly knows when Freemasonry was formed, a widely accepted belief is it started during the middle ages, particularly from the cathedral building.
However, with the decline of cathedral buildings, they started to accept honorary members in their circles to bolster their presence.
Before we reveal the beliefs of Freemasons, first it is pertinent to comprehend a few things:

There isn’t any controlling authority over Freemasonry.
It has local organisations, known as lodges.
All lodges follow the same principles, but their activities can be different.
It has three major degrees – Entered Apprentice, Fellow of The Craft, and Master Mason.
It also has groups that are social and recreational in character.
The Illuminati are completely unrelated to Freemasonry.
Masonic brothers support one another on a grand scale.

It is imperative to perceive all these key things in order to understand the beliefs of Freemasons since most people think this organization compels you to change your faith, family, or occupation… This isn’t the case at all.
Freemasonry, in fact, reminds you of yourself, your family, and your community.
In a way, it makes you care for each other and your communities, and it also keeps your faith in the Supreme Architect.
For that reason, Atheists and Agnostics aren’t welcome in this society. It is not a religion, therefore it doesn’t have any so-called ‘Core Beliefs’.
Freemasonry is a ‘Fraternity’, in which a group of people shares a common interest. You have a friendship and mutual support within a group. For that reason, it won’t be correct to say ‘Beliefs’.
Instead, it is better to say, it has three principles :
Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth.
In order to join the fraternity, one must believe in the existence of a Supreme Being.
This simply means that one must believe there is something beyond this material world, whether it be God or an unknown force. One must believe there is a hidden answer to existence.
This means that no matter which religion one follows one can still become a Freemason since all religions are based on the assumption that there is something greater than us, the Grand Architect of it all.
People who do not actually follow any religion can still join Freemasonry if they believe there is an omnipresent entity, which Freemasons call the Great Architect of the Universe.
Even if one is not sure what they believe this supreme presence is they can still become Freemasons, so following a religion is not necessary.
Women Freemasons
Women Freemasons have been meeting across the country for more than 100 years.
There are two female-only Grand Lodges: The Order of Women Freemasons and the Honourable Fraternity of Ancient Freemasons (Freemasonry for Women). They both follow exactly the same ceremonies and wear the same regalia as male Freemasons, and they often work closely with community and charity projects.
The United Grand Lodge of England has an excellent working relationship with both Grand Lodges. Members from the Honourable Fraternity of Ancient Freemasons (Freemasonry for Women) and The Order of Women Freemasons have both taken part in Open House London at Freemasons’ Hall in recent years in order to showcase female Freemasonry, as well as taking part in joint Freshers’ Fairs up and down the country as part of the Universities Scheme.

Civic Luncheon
2025-06-05 12:00 - 16:00 | The Crypt, Ely Place, London, EC1N 6RY, United Kingdom
The United Wards Club of the City of London is delighted to invite members and friends to attend this years Civic Luncheon to entertain

Our Patron the Rt Hon the Lord Mayor of the City of London Alastair King
Alderman & Sheriff Gregory Jones KC
Sheriff David Chalk

This year we will be hosting the Lord Mayor at The Crypt of St Etheldreda’s, a magical medieval Crypt in Ely Place (EC1N).
One of London’s hidden gems, St Etheldreda’s is a truly beautiful and historic building and the oldest Roman Catholic Church in England.
With its History of Celebration and Celebration of History, the 600 year–old Grade1 listed Crypt at St Etheldreda’s has been hosting celebrity parties in the heart of London ever since King Henry V111 held his three-day wedding feast there in 1531.
Today The Crypt offers the same superb standards of excellent hospitality which United Wards Club members will have the opportunity to experience at this year’s Civic Luncheon with catering done by the Bleeding Heart.
Accessibility Statement: Ramp access provided
* Bookings are now open *
MENU.
The President has decided on the menu below:
Starter
Plum tomato, red onion & crumbled feta tart tatin with toasted pine nuts & sherry dressing
Holdaway Vineyard Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, Blank Canvas, New Zealand, 2023
*****
Main
Confit lamb rump with baked ratatouille, fondant potato & rosemary jus
Trinity Pinot Noir, Trinity Hill, Hawkes Bay, New Zealand, 2022
*****
Classic Crème Brulee (vegetarian) ,sable Breton
*****
Coffee, petit fours and Port to finish
